Does Vraylar (cariprazine) cause weight gain?
Vraylar (cariprazine), like other atypical antipsychotic drugs, can lead to metabolic changes that may result in weight gain. However, real-world clinical experience suggests that weight gain with Vraylar is less problematic compared to other antipsychotics.
How Much Weight Might I Gain on Vraylar?
Weight gain varies depending on the condition being treated. Clinical trials reported the following average weight changes:
Schizophrenia:
- 6 weeks: +2.2 lbs (1.0 kg) (placebo: +0.7 lbs (0.3 kg))
- 12 weeks: +2.6 lbs (1.2 kg)
- 24 weeks: +3.7 lbs (1.7 kg)
- 48 weeks: +5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)
Bipolar depression:
- 6–8 weeks: +1.2 lbs (0.5 kg) (placebo: -0.2 lbs (-0.1 kg))
Bipolar mania:
- 3 weeks: +1.1 lbs (0.5 kg) (placebo: +0.4 lbs (0.2 kg))
Major depressive disorder (as an add-on treatment):
- 26 weeks: +3.7 lbs (1.7 kg)
- Long-term trial: 19% experienced ≥7% weight increase, 5% experienced ≥7% weight loss
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How Does Vraylar Compare to Other Antipsychotics for Weight Gain?
An international panel of clinicians with real-world experience with Vraylar reported that weight gain is not a particularly problematic side effect of Vraylar. Additionally, fewer patients discontinued Vraylar due to weight gain compared to other similar medications.
How Should I Monitor Weight Gain While Taking Vraylar?
Patients taking Vraylar should monitor their weight regularly, including:
- Baseline measurement before starting treatment
- Ongoing weight checks during treatment to detect significant changes
If you experience unexpected weight gain, consult your healthcare provider for guidance on lifestyle adjustments or alternative treatment options.
References
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Vraylar. Highlights of Prescribing Information. [Accessed December 22, 2022]. Available online at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/204370s009lbl.pdf.
- Vraylar. Possible side effect of Vraylar. [Accessed December 22, 2022]. Available online at: https://www.vraylar.com/why-vraylar-schizophrenia.
- Vraylar. What side effects are possible when taking Vraylar. [Accessed December 22, 2022]. Available online at: https://www.vraylar.com/why-vraylar-bipolar.
- Fagiolini A, Alcalá JÁ, Aubel T, et al. Treating schizophrenia with cariprazine: from clinical research to clinical practice. Real world experiences and recommendations from an International Panel. Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2020;19:55. Published 2020 Sep 26. doi:10.1186/s12991-020-00305-3.
Read next
How long does it take for Vraylar (cariprazine) to work?
Vraylar (cariprazine) takes time to work and patients often see a gradual reduction in symptoms over several weeks. Symptoms tend to continue to improve the longer the medication is taken. Continue reading
How does Vraylar compare with Seroquel?
Vraylar and Seroquel are both oral prescription medicines known as atypical antipsychotics. They treat the mental health conditions schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Vraylar is also approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). They work by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain to help stabilize thoughts, actions and moods. Continue reading
Do Vraylar (cariprazine) side effects go away?
Most side effects with Vraylar will subside with time after your body has become used to the medicine. However, some side effects can be serious, have long-lasting effects or be irreversible. Speak to your doctor for medical advice if you have side effects that concern you with Vraylar or any other medication. Continue reading
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